The science of elite soccer players returning to play after pregnancy and managing pressure

The NWSL has a record number of active mothers rostered, 28, this season. The figure represents a shift in support and understanding around pregnancy, postpartum and parenting. The Athletic explores these topics and more in a series devoted to motherhood and soccer. Sophia Wilson is standing on the sideline at Audi Field in Washington, D.C., about to enter the pitch for the first time since becoming a mom. The U.S. and Portland Thorns forward worked tirelessly to reach this moment, and now, 19,2